People still do it despite the fact that most people know it's wrong.You may be struggling to understand why something has been taken from you.There are different levels of theft, from pocketing a few dollars left lying around to taking whole identities to stealing millions from trusting customers.It is possible to understand why someone chooses to steal based on the person's motives.
Step 1: Know the signs of kleptomania.
Kleptomania is an impulse control disorder in which a person has the urge to steal items that are not needed or that have little value.A kleptomaniac might have enough money to purchase the item.The person gets a rush from stealing.People with this disorder don't steal for their own gain.They don't usually plan out thefts or collaborate with others to complete them.These urges come on their own.The person can steal from public places as well as the homes of family and friends.If you know a person who can't seem to stop stealing, ask them to see a doctor.Therapy and medication can be used to treat Kleptomania.You could say, "I noticed that you took something out of that store."I'm pretty sure you had the money and wanted to steal it.I don't want you to get into trouble.Maybe you should speak to a professional.I'm willing to go with you.
Step 2: You can identify addiction-related stealing.
The value of the stolen items is not taken into account by a kleptomaniac.Other forms of pathological theft are driven by addictions.One of the warning signs of addiction is stealing and financial difficulties.A person with a gambling addiction may take money from their family and friends to fund their addiction.Lying is a component of this type of theft, so if the person is confronted about the issue, they are likely to deny having a problem.Making friends with a new group while neglecting existing friends is one of the signs of addiction.Get the person professional help if you suspect they are stealing to fund an addiction.You can ask the person if they have been acting differently, withdrawing from their friends, and having trouble keeping money.I'm concerned that you might have a drug problem.An intervention can be staged if the person is in denial about drug use.Other people who care about the person joining you in reaching out to them are involved in an intervention.This can lead to the person getting into addiction treatment.
Step 3: It's not a personal thing to steal pathologically.
People who steal pathologically aren't doing it to hurt anyone.The stealing helps meet a need.People who steal for pathological reasons can't stop it without intervention.
Step 4: Some people steal to meet their basic needs.
Many thefts are a result of desperation.A person with insufficient means to provide for their family may not have a job.A person will steal to feed children or provide shelter.
Step 5: Peer pressure can lead to stealing.
Someone can develop a habit of stealing if they are in the wrong crowd.The thrill of taking something and potentially getting away with it may be more important than the value of the stolen item.Teens who are susceptible to peer pressure are very common in this type of stealing.They might do it to look cool or be accepted by a group of peers.
Step 6: There is a lack of empathy.
Someone in the future may be affected by a teenager or person who has difficulty seeing the bigger picture.The person is not pathological, but in the moment they may act without thinking about how they will hurt the person or business they are stealing from.This person probably wouldn't steal if confronted or asked to think about their actions.
Step 7: People steal to fill emotional holes.
A person who has suffered an early attachment loss may steal to compensate.Basic emotional needs of these individuals are not being met.In an attempt to fill an emotional hole left behind by a parent, the child may steal to resolve feelings of deprivation.The stealing doesn't resolve the issue, so the individual takes more and more.
Step 8: Some people steal just because they can.
The person has the opportunity to steal.They might get excited by taking what is not theirs.Maybe they see it as a challenge.They may steal when they have enough.
Step 9: They should involve the authorities.
If you have had something taken from you, the first thing you should do is report it to the police.If you can, give your local police as much information as possible about the stolen property and potential suspects.If you take action immediately, you can recover the stolen items and catch the thief.If your identity was stolen, there are steps you must take to recover and protect yourself in the future.The Federal Trade Commission has more information at IdentityTheft.gov.
Step 10: As soon as possible, reestablish safety.
It is important that you recover your sense of security after having your home or personal property stolen.Damages to your home should be repaired.The window frames and door hinges can be weak and need to be inspected by a security company.Make sure your neighbors are taking precautions to protect themselves.It is a good idea to make a safety plan for you and your family in case of a theft in the future.Best practices for securing valuables and a place for children to hide can be developed.
Step 11: Try not to change your routine.
You have to go about your life as usual.It is normal to be afraid after a traumatic event; however, you must not let fear get the better of you.
Step 12: Take care of yourself.
Self-pity can make you neglect your health and well-being.A theft can cause a lot of stress in your life.Try to get enough sleep.You can increase your strength and emotional well-being by eating and exercising well.If you nurture your mind and body during this time, you will be able to move past the negative feelings you are experiencing.
Step 13: You should lean on your support system.
Recover from a theft with the help of your family, friends, and neighbors.If someone can help you with something that will make you feel safer in your home or community, be honest.Don't hesitate to get support from your friends and family."Would you mind keeping an eye on the house this weekend?"I've been uneasy since the break-in and we'll be out of town Friday and Saturday.